Expert Sleepers ESX-8MD MK2 MIDI/DIN Sync Eurorack Expander Module

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​The ESX-8MD is an expansion module for the ES-4, ES-40 or ES-5, adding eight MIDI/DINsync outputs from one expansion header.

The ES-4/5 Controller software (part of Expert Sleepers Silent Way) allows the ESX-8MD outputs to be used for MIDI output (note - not just MIDI clock output, but as an actual MIDI port, capable of sending any MIDI messages). Since these outputs are driven from an audio connection, they have sample-accurate timing, which no USB MIDI interface can claim.

The Silent Way Sync plug-in would typically be used to send DINsync to the ESX-8MD, though any software capable of addressing the ES-4/5's expansion headers, via Silent Way or the Max/MSP external, can send clock pulses to it.

ESX-8MD mk2

From December 2014, the ESX-8MD is shipping in a revised "mk2" form. Functionally the mk2 is equivalent to the mk1. However, MIDI output is now guaranteed at all samples rates, for all receiving devices. (The mk1 was incompatible with some devices when running at 44.1kHz.)

Specifications

The ESX-8MD's specifications are as follows:

• Panel width: 10HP
• Module depth: 27mm
• Digital input: connection from ES-4, ES-40 or ES-5 module
• Outputs: 8 5-pin DIN sockets, wired for both MIDI and DINsync
  • Each channel is wired individually for MIDI (8 simultaneous outputs)
  • Channels are wired in pairs for DINsync (4 simultaneous outputs, each duplicated on two sockets)
• Indicators: 1 LED per channel indicating activity
• Current draw: 23mA on the +12V rail, 0mA on the -12V rail (12mA total)

The front panel is drilled for both Doepfer and Analogue Systems mounting holes (using a 'slot' rather than a single round hole). The power connector is a Doepfer standard 10 way IDC, with -12V furthest from the top of the board.

For more detail, please see the user manual.

Software Requirements

The ESX-8MD requires software in order to operate, as noted above. Currently, the only such software is Expert Sleepers Silent Way, and our Max/MSP external. Note that MIDI functionality is only available via Silent Way.

Silent Way is available in AudioUnit, VST & AAX formats for Mac OS X and Windows. Use of Silent Way therefore requires a compatible host application (DAW). 

A Silent Way licence is not included with the ESX-8MD.